The Taj Mahal Palace

Jamsetji Tata opened the Taj Mahal Palace on Mumbai's Apollo Bunder waterfront in 1903, and it has been the city's defining building ever since - arguably more so than the Gateway of India that was later built directly opposite it. The original palace wing carries the famous red dome, a cantilevered central staircase and a great deal of Indo-Saracenic detail; a 1970s tower alongside adds height and harbour-view rooms.

The palace rooms are the ones to ask for, full of period furniture, Belgian chandeliers and art from the hotel's own substantial collection. A pool sits in the central courtyard, and the spa and gym occupy their own floor.

The food is a large part of the hotel's reputation: Wasabi by Morimoto, the Indian restaurant Masala Bay, the Sea Lounge for afternoon tea over the harbour, and the Harbour Bar, which was the city's first licensed bar. Colaba Causeway, the Prince of Wales Museum and the Elephanta Island ferries are all immediately outside.